Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has delivered a glowing verdict on Liverpool’s move for Alexis Mac Allister.

Although the Brighton midfielder’s transfer to Anfield hasn’t been made official yet, his switch is likely to be announced in the coming days. Merson believes the addition of the Argentinian international could help them become title contenders once again:

“If Liverpool are going to challenge for the league as well as just the top four, for them to get Mac Allister would be a great signing. He’s a top player, a World Cup winner and was a massive influence in that tournament. He’s a very good player, a very calming influence on the pitch. He keeps the ball and ticks it along, and reminds me a bit of an Ilkay Gundogan without the goals.”

“He’s a different kind of player to Jude Bellingham who they wanted before, Bellingham would get forward a bit more, but Mac Allister does the simple stuff very, very well. People might say, ‘Oh, the simple stuff?’ but there’s not a lot of players who can do that.”

Fans will be hoping that Merson is right and that Mac Allister can help the Reds get back into the title conversation with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal next campaign.

Mac Allister could turn out to be a real bargain for Liverpool

The release clause in the 24-year-old’s contract means that he will cost just £45m, which is quite some way below his actual market value. It will allow the Reds a lot more breathing room in terms of being able to land their other transfer targets this summer.

Multiple reports have confirmed that the club have held talks with the agents of Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone (who could cost between £34.4m and £43m), as well as Nice’s Khephren Thuram (who is valued at around £51.6m).